In 17th Century, the Dutch settlers largely relied on ... to build up South Africa

In the 17th century, Dutch settlers largely relied on black South African slaves to build up South Africa. The Dutch East India Company, which controlled the Cape Colony, needed a large workforce to establish a settlement and grow crops to supply their ships. To meet this demand, they imported slaves from Angola, Mozambique, and other parts of Africa to work on farms and in households. Over time, the slave population grew and became an essential part of the economy. They were used for a variety of tasks, such as farming, construction, and domestic work. Despite the harsh conditions and treatment, the slave population also contributed to the cultural diversity of the region. It's worth noting that while natural resources, government proceeds, and basic social infrastructure were also important factors in building up South Africa, in the 17th century, it was the labor of black South African slaves that played a crucial role in the development of the region.